Family Support Program Application
2025-2026
The Tennessee Family Support Program is a grant program funded through the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging (DDA). Funding is available for services and supports that are not otherwise covered by insurance or other resources. Please refer to our website for more information about services and supports covered by the Family Support Program.
The program is limited to State of Tennessee residents who have a severe disability (see below) that is life long, permanent, and results in significant limitations in their daily life. Funding is available to eligible individuals of all ages and income levels.
The primary focus of the Family Support Program is to provide services to those who:
- Were born with a severe or developmental disability or acquired it in childhood.
- Have been severely disabled by injury or trauma (brain injury, spinal cord injury, loss of limbs).
- Or have a neurological / neuromuscular disorder (ALS, Muscular Dystrophy, or Multiple Sclerosis).
Due to limited funding, not all applicants who are eligible may be selected to receive funding.
Applicants are not guaranteed to be selected for funding from year to year. Selection will be based upon priorities set forth by the District 3 Family Support Council.
Although applications are accepted year-round, the open application period is January 1 thru April 15 of every year. The fiscal year 2025-2026 will begin July 1 and end June 30, 2026. Funding will not be available until after July 1, 2025.
Please note:
Individuals who are enrolled in the Katie Beckett Waiver, ECF Choices Program, DIDD Waiver Program, TennCare Choices Program or Pace Program are not eligible to receive Family Support Program funding.
Mental illness and aging related disabilities are not covered by the Family Support Program.
Questions? We're here to help! Please contact us using the information below:
Application Checklist
The following documents are required to apply for the Family Support Program.
Your application cannot be processed until all documents are received by our office.
1. Intake Application
The intake application can be found below, where you will be asked to fill out a series of forms. It is very important that you provide as much information as possible to assist us in determining your eligibility and selection for the program.
2. Proof of Tennessee Residency
Required annually for all applicants. Documents must be dated within the last 60 days and must be an original, unaltered document.
Please submit one of the following showing the date, name, & address of the applicant:
- Tenncare or other insurance letter / bill
- Current IEP, IFSP (child applicants only)
- SSI or SSDI letter
- Utility bill (electric, gas, or water)
- Mortgage or rental agreement
New applicants must also submit the following:
3. Proof of Severe Disability
Applicants must submit a statement from their physician that includes their disability and / or diagnosis.
4. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
The State of Tennessee requires that we have proof of citizenship for all Family Support Applicants. Please submit one of the following:
- U.S. Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship